Systematics and Taxonomy

Systematics and Taxonomy

“Recent molecular analyses and additional morphological studies of the nervous system have confirmed the phylogenetic position of tardigrades as a sister group of the arthropods.” (Nelson, 2002)

However according to Ruppert et al. (2004), evolutionary relationships are currently uncertain. Though they seem to be closest to arthropods, there is also similarity to cycloneuralians (Kinorhynchans, Loriciferans, Priapulids, Nematodes, and Nematomorphs).